In both the scriptures and in the Church's liturgy John the Baptizer is referred to as an angel, prophet, apostle, hermit and martyr, for these terms well describe his life and service. John, like the angels was sent from God to be the messenger of the Lord. His message was that of the prophets who came before him: repent for the messiah of God is at hand. Like the apostles who followed him, John pointed to Jesus and proclaimed him as the "Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world." He prepares for his ministry as a hermit in the desert, living a life of prayer, fasting and continence. And, like all those who dare to proclaim the truth, he suffered a martyr's death in fidelity to the Word of God.

The birth of John was announced by the Archangel Gabriel who would also announce Christ's birth. His birth, like that of the Lord, was surrounded by improbability and wonder: for an aged couple, with no hope of offspring, the angel gives the joyful news of the birth of a son, John. While in the womb, John was sanctified for his mission of preaching repentance and pointing out the Messiah. Before their births Jesus and John encountered each other in the persons of their mothers. As Mary greeted Elizabeth, John (still in the womb) jumped for joy as he recognized the presence of Jesus in the womb of Mary. Thus John was born to grace before his human birth. Since he was to prepare the Lord's way, it was only proper that he should be prepared by God's grace for his prophetic service.

May the prayers of John the Baptizer be with us. Amen.